Letter: Burpee Museum's Paleofest fun and educational

Thursday

Mar 14, 2013 at 12:01 AMMar 14, 2013 at 1:19 PM

What is it about dinosaurs that creates so much excitement?

What is it about dinosaurs that creates so much excitement?

On March 1 and again on March 2 I departed the Burpee Museum’s 15th annual Paleofest with a big smile, but for different reasons. On Saturday, I was totally captivated watching renowned paleontologists duke it out with good humor as they defended their research and chatted with veteran volunteers who regaled me with stories of dinosaur digs in the wild western desert. Local lovers of natural history and eager college students were thrilled to rub elbows with their heroes. The atmosphere was electric.

On Sunday, I joined the ranks of parents and grandparents swept up in the festivities and was just as amazed by the science. Rockford’s own unique Paleofest is an event to be cherished. Its broad appeal to all ages, fans and scholars is what draws international speakers year after year.

Kudos to the staff and volunteers of the Burpee Museum of Natural History for creating and sustaining this local treasure. I’ll be back next year!

— Patricia Gomez, Burpee trustee, Rockford

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.